INEC Suspends Kunchi/Tsanyawa Rerun Election, Constituency Left Without Representation for Nearly a Year

voteThe Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has suspended the rerun elections in the Kunchi/Tsanyawa constituency of Kano State, following violent disruptions by suspected political thugs. The election, which was scheduled for February 3, 2024, faced severe challenges despite extensive preparations by both security agencies and the electoral body.

Reports indicated that thugs stormed 10 polling units in the constituency, hijacking election materials and causing chaos, despite the presence of heavy security at the locations. In a statement, Mr. Sam Olumekun, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), confirmed that the election was suspended due to the disruptions, irregularities, and the abduction of election officials.

He revealed that the thugs vandalized all 10 polling units in Kunchi/Tsanyawa, completely halting the election process. The suspension was made in line with Section 24(3) of the Electoral Act 2022, but as of now, nearly 11 months later, no new election has been held, leaving the constituency without representation in the Kano State House of Assembly.

Constituency Without a Representative for Almost a Year

This prolonged delay has caused widespread dissatisfaction among the residents of Kunchi/Tsanyawa, with many feeling that their rights to be represented in the state assembly have been violated. Locals voiced their frustration to DAILY POST, demanding an explanation for why the election had not been conducted.

Ashiru Abdulhamid Yan Dadi, a resident, highlighted the negative impact of the lack of representation, stating, “The lack of representation has set us back. We lack basic amenities, and many youths are unemployed. Some are even forced to migrate to Abuja or Lagos in search of opportunities.”

Dauda Jawwara, a young politician in the area, expressed concern over the absence of state and federal representation, saying, “We are completely detached from governance. We are not reaping the benefits of democracy in our two local governments.”

Uncertainty About Rerun Election

The constituency has been without a representative since the appeal court annulled the election of Garba Yau Gwarmai of the APC in 2023. The court’s decision followed a petition filed by NNPP candidate Yusif Ali Maigado, ordering a rerun.

Although a source close to INEC has indicated that the rerun election might take place on January 18, 2024, less than 10 days before the proposed date, there are no visible signs of serious preparations by the commission. This has left residents skeptical about the possibility of the election taking place as scheduled.

Meanwhile, the situation mirrors complaints from residents of Shanono/Bagwai Local Government Areas, who are also waiting for elections that have been delayed indefinitely.